Ball State returned just one inning pitched prior to the 2013 season. On the outside there were questions about how the Cardinals would fill that void, and with whom. But inside the BSU camp there was little doubt about pitching. In hindsight, there was good reason not to worry.

Heading into the Mid-American Conference tournament, the Cards now boast two of the better arms in the league with friends, and freshman, Kelsey Schifferdecker and Nicole Steinbach. In fact, it was Steinbach that claimed the league's Freshman-of-the-Year honors this season.

Dive deeper into the success of the Cardinals rookie hurlers, and find out what makes them Ball State's version of 'The Odd Couple.'